Luján Applauds Senate Passage of Bill to Streamline Land Port of Entry Permits

Washington, D.C. - Today, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) applauded the Senate passage of his InternationalBridge and Port of Entry Modernization Act. This legislation, passed in this year's National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), will expedite the presidential permitting process for all international bridges and land ports of entry.

"Ports of entry and international bridges are vital to the economic success of our border communities, supporting trade, business, and tourism. Yet, new border crossings are too often held up by the presidential permit process. I'm proud to announce the Senate passage of my legislation that will help streamline this process and deliver real investments to Santa Teresa and Sunland Park in New Mexico," said Senator Luján.

"The Border Trade Alliance thanks Sen. Lujan for his leadership in strengthening the permitting process for cross-border infrastructure projects. New Mexico's ports of entry are vital gateways for trade, tourism, and economic opportunity border-wide. Sen. Lujan understands that modern, efficient, and secure border infrastructure benefits communities on both sides of the border and supports our nation's economic and national security. We look forward to continuing our partnership with him to see this important reform enacted into law," said Ms. Britton Mullen, President, Border Trade Alliance.

Specifically, the International Bridge and Port of Entry Modernization Act would:

• Expand the scope to include all international land ports of entry along the U.S.-Mexico and U.S.-Canada borders;
• Add the word "sole" before "basis" to clarify that the State Department should not consider other factors besides America's foreign policy interest;
• Include language for the State Department to not consider NEPA during their decision making for the purpose of a presidential permit. NEPA would be considered for any new international bridge or port of entry before construction or expansion.

In May 2025, Luján introduced the International Bridge and Port of Entry Modernization Act with U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas).

Read the full text of the bill here.

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